New Zealand All Blacks

The All Blacks have been the dominant force in international rugby since the sport turned professional in 1995 — and long before that. New Zealand Rugby was founded in 1892 and the All Blacks played their first test match in 1903. Their 1905 Originals tour of Britain and Europe, where they won 34 of 35 matches, announced them to the world and the legend began.

They won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987, then waited 24 years for their second title in 2011 on home soil — ending a period of near-misses that had become a national obsession. They backed it up with a third World Cup in 2015, becoming the first team to win back-to-back World Cup titles. The All Blacks have produced the greatest players in rugby history across every position — from Colin Meads to Jonah Lomu to Richie McCaw to Beauden Barrett.

The Haka — specifically Ka Mate, performed since 1905, and Kapa o Pango, introduced in 2005 — is the most recognisable pre-match ritual in world sport. A Māori war dance performed before every test match, the Haka is a statement of identity, pride and challenge that sends a chill down the spine of every opponent and spectator who witnesses it live.

The All Blacks' connection to Māori culture runs deep — the silver fern on the black jersey, the Haka, and the significant proportion of Māori and Pacific Island players in the squad all reflect a team that represents New Zealand's diverse cultural identity. Wearing the black jersey is considered the highest honour in New Zealand sport.

The All Blacks jersey is the most iconic in rugby union — and arguably in world sport. The all-black shirt with the silver fern has been worn since 1893 and is instantly recognisable to sports fans worldwide, whether they follow rugby or not. Simple, bold and utterly timeless, the black jersey has never needed reinvention.

The silver fern — a native New Zealand plant and national symbol — sits proudly on the chest. Adidas have been the kit supplier since 1999, producing some of sport's most coveted shirts. An All Blacks jersey is one of the most sought-after pieces of sporting kit on the planet.